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Paralysis care

P

pippiandzinny

New Born Pup
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Hi friends, I apologize if this thread is in the wrong place as I'm new to this platform, please let me know and I'll take steps to rectify it!

My guinea pig Piper, aged approximately seven, suffered a blown disk maybe four years ago and experienced temporary paralysis in her hind legs. She recovered after about three weeks and has walked fine with slightly decreased function for the past years. Recently (on American election night, yikes) her paralysis returned and her vet diagnosed her with osteoarthritis in the spine. She is on meloxicam which agrees fine with her, and she seems otherwise healthy and in good spirits. She has lived happily with this same paralysis before and I don't think it's negatively affecting her quality of life. However, I would like to know if anyone in a similar situation has any tips for caring for a guinea pig with this type of paralysis? I'm worried about things like bedsores and don't know what to do about that except keeping a clean cage and bathing with baby wipes daily and soap and water once a week. Any other ideas? I'm open to any information about anything, she's a great girl with a great attitude and I love her very much; I just want to keep her as happy and healthy as possible.

Many thanks!
Fiona
 
Hi and welcome

I am very sorry about the recurring paralysis. Our mobility care guide link contains all the practical detailed information on short and long term care for guinea pigs with mobility issues. You should find it very helpful.

If osteoarthritis is being diagnosed, then I would strongly recommend to consider supplementing with glucosamine, which helps with the coating of the joints and can help your piggy ideally regain some degree of mobility or at least more comfort in the medium term in conjunction with the long term metacam.
 
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